The Greatest Canadian, Unknown "Biography" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Biography

Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.

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  1. 1. Night by Elie Wiesel

    This book is a memoir of the author's experiences during the Holocaust, specifically in the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps. The narrative focuses on the relationship between a father and son under the most extreme circumstances, the loss of faith in God, humanity, and in each other, and the horrifying reality of the systematic genocide of six million Jews during World War II. The book is a poignant and stark examination of the depths of human evil and the enduring power of hope and survival.

    The 635th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein

    "All But My Life" is a poignant memoir of a young woman's six-year ordeal as a victim of Nazi cruelty. The narrative follows her life from a peaceful, upper-middle-class childhood in Bielitz, Poland, through her horrifying experiences and loss during the Holocaust, to her miraculous survival and marriage to an American soldier. It is a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.

    The 2690th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Glenn Gould Reader by Glenn Gould

    "The Glenn Gould Reader" is a compilation of writings by a renowned Canadian pianist, known for his unique and insightful perspectives on music and culture. This collection offers a window into the artist's mind, featuring a diverse range of essays, articles, reviews, and interviews that explore his philosophies on performance, the intricacies of musical interpretation, and the role of technology in the arts. His articulate and often provocative commentary extends beyond classical music to touch upon a variety of subjects, reflecting his broad intellectual interests and distinctive voice in the world of music and beyond.

    The 4035th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Averroes by George F. Hourani

    This book provides a comprehensive study of Averroes, a seminal Islamic philosopher from the medieval period, known for his profound influence on both the Islamic and Christian intellectual worlds. The text delves into Averroes' life, his philosophical and theological ideas, and particularly his commentaries on Aristotle, which played a crucial role in shaping medieval scholasticism. The author explores how Averroes' attempts to harmonize philosophy with Islamic theology sparked significant debates and how his ideas were received, critiqued, and integrated into European thought, thereby leaving a lasting legacy on the development of Western philosophy and science.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Man Who Loved Only Numbers by Paul Hoffman

    "The Man Who Loved Only Numbers" is a captivating biography that delves into the life of a brilliant mathematician. From his early years as a child prodigy to his groundbreaking contributions in number theory, the book explores the eccentricities and obsessions that consumed his life. With a unique blend of mathematical concepts and personal anecdotes, the biography paints a vivid portrait of a man who was truly devoted to the world of numbers.

    The 5305th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Velazquez by Jonathan Brown

    This book provides a comprehensive analysis of Diego Velázquez, one of the foremost figures of the Spanish Golden Age of painting. The author delves into Velázquez's life, exploring his rise from a young Sevillian artist to becoming the leading painter at the court of King Philip IV, and ultimately his influence on the development of Western art. Through detailed examination of his major works, the book highlights Velázquez's mastery of technique, his innovative use of light and shadow, and his ability to convey complex human emotions, which positioned him as a pivotal artist who transformed the genre of portraiture and had a lasting impact on European art.

    The 7833rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Boy In The Moon: A Father’s Journey To Understand His Extraordinary Son by Ian Brown

    "The Boy in the Moon" is a memoir written by Ian Brown, a Canadian journalist, about his life with his severely disabled son, Walker. The book chronicles Brown's struggles to understand and care for his son, who suffers from a rare genetic disorder that leaves him unable to walk, talk, or even eat on his own. Brown's journey is one of heartbreak, frustration, and ultimately, acceptance, as he learns to love and appreciate his son for who he is, rather than who he might have been. Through his compelling and deeply personal narrative, Brown sheds light on the challenges faced by families with disabled children, and offers a poignant meditation on the nature of love, family, and the human condition.

    The 7922nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Conversations With Glenn Gould by Jonathan Cott

    "Conversations with Glenn Gould" is an insightful exploration into the mind of one of the twentieth century's most enigmatic and fascinating classical pianists. Through a series of interviews, the book delves into Gould's thoughts on a range of subjects, from his radical interpretations of Bach and his decision to abandon live performances, to his preferences in music, art, and life. The dialogues reveal Gould's complex personality, his intellectual rigor, and the idiosyncratic philosophies that guided both his musical career and personal life, offering readers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a genius.

    The 9282nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Louis Riel by Chester Brown

    This graphic novel chronicles the life of a controversial Métis leader in 19th-century Canada, focusing on his role in the Red River and North-West Rebellions. Through detailed illustrations and a compelling narrative, the book explores his complex personality, his struggle for Métis rights, and his ultimate execution. It delves into themes of identity, resistance, and the clash between indigenous and colonial forces, providing a nuanced portrayal of a historical figure often viewed through polarized lenses.

    The 9495th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Railroader by Howard Green

    This biography provides an in-depth look into the life and career of one of North America's most influential railroad executives, chronicling his journey from his early days to his position at the helm of a major railway company. The narrative delves into his strategic vision, leadership style, and the transformative impacts he had on the rail industry, highlighting both his successes and the controversies that surrounded him. Through interviews, personal insights, and a detailed examination of his professional decisions, the book paints a comprehensive portrait of a man who was as complex as the industry he helped shape, offering readers a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of modern railroading.

    The 9955th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Mistress to an Age: A Life of Madame De Stael by J. Christopher Herold

    "Mistress to an Age: A Life of Madame De Stael" is a comprehensive biography of Germaine de Stael, one of the most influential women of the 18th and 19th centuries. The book delves into her role as a prominent writer, intellectual, and political activist during the French Revolution and Napoleonic era. It also explores her personal life, detailing her tumultuous relationships, her exile from Paris, and her influential salon that attracted many of the era's leading intellectuals and artists.

    The 10138th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. No Turning Back by Rania Abouzeid

    "No Turning Back" provides a gripping and intimate portrayal of the Syrian war through the eyes of four individuals whose lives are transformed by the uprising against the Assad regime. The narrative delves deep into the personal stories of a young revolutionary, a child refugee, a jihadist, and a disillusioned government soldier, offering a nuanced and humanizing perspective on the complex conflict. The book captures the brutal realities and emotional depths of the Syrian struggle, highlighting the enduring human spirit amidst chaos and destruction.

    The 10207th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. This Much Is True by Miriam Margolyes

    In "This Much Is True," the author presents a candid and humorous autobiography that delves into her life as a celebrated actress and storyteller. With a career spanning decades in theater, film, and television, she shares personal anecdotes and reflections on her professional journey, her identity, and her experiences with fame and the arts. Known for her wit and no-nonsense attitude, the author offers readers an intimate look at the highs and lows of her life, her outspoken views on various issues, and the colorful encounters she's had with notable personalities throughout her vibrant career.

    The 10447th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download